Archive · 2 Jul 2025
FTC Opens In-Depth Review of SoftBank's Ampere Acquisition
Imagine a big company, SoftBank, wants to buy another company called Ampere that makes important computer parts.
The government, specifically the FTC, is taking a really close look at this deal.
This is like when your parents double-check a big purchase to make sure it's a good idea.
The FTC is asking for a lot more information, which might take a long time.
If the FTC doesn't like the deal, they could even stop it.
SoftBank already owns a company called Arm that helps make these computer parts, and this deal with Ampere is to help SoftBank get even better at making them.
The deal was announced earlier this year for billions of dollars.
The FTC is conducting an in-depth investigation into SoftBank's acquisition of Ampere Computing.
This investigation, known as a 'second request,' could potentially delay or block the deal.
SoftBank announced the all-cash transaction, valuing Ampere at $6.5 billion, in March.
Ampere develops server processors, a key component for data center computers.
SoftBank already owns Arm Holdings, whose technology is used by Ampere.
- Who
- SoftBank, Ampere Computing, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- What
- The FTC is conducting an in-depth investigation into SoftBank's acquisition of Ampere Computing.
- When
- The deal was announced in March.
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To ensure the acquisition complies with antitrust regulations.
SoftBank
FTC
Market Competition
SoftBank
The acquisition allows SoftBank to strengthen its artificial intelligence infrastructure.
FTC
The acquisition could harm competition in the server processor market.
- Company
- SoftBank
- Acquired Company
- Ampere Computing
- Deal Value
- $6.5 billion
- FTC Action
- In-depth investigation (second request)
- SoftBank's Arm Ownership
- Majority owner
- Targeted Closing
- Second half of 2025